Ian Carmichael Chard died unexpectedly of natural causes in his home on April 14, 2022 at the age of 75 years. He leaves behind his best friend and beloved wife of 40 years, Erin, his son Anthony (Shauna) and daughter Aleta (Loren), and adorable grand-daughters Micah and Della.
Ian grew up and spent most of his life in Victoria BC and surrounding area. He had many strong connections to old friends and deep roots in the city. Ian’s early years included many great memories on Hobbs Street with siblings Anne, Kath, Mary and Wilson. Limitless play and exploration in the Cadboro Bay ‘back 40’ with sibs and neighbourhood buddies, led to lifelong relationships and a love of cars, boats, cold beer, and Elvis. His years in the oil-patch brought further lifelong connections, happy memories and a love for red meat and good barbeque.
Ian was extremely family oriented, and his deeply responsible nature provided comfort and security to his loved ones. One of his happiest environments was his family’s cabin near Brentwood on the Saanich Peninsula. Many a hot summer afternoon was spent coaching water-skiers and driving the boat for all the children of the next generation, whose common refrain was “Thanks for the ski, E!” For both the skiers and non-skiers in the group, the refrain became a metaphor for “Thanks for the unwavering reliability and loyalty.”
He had a tough exterior, but to those who knew him well his loyalty and steady presence were a calm berth in a storm. Lucky were those who received his trademark Chard grin, which could light up the room.
A Memorial Service will be held in the Sequoia Centre at McCall Gardens on Friday, May 20, 2022 at 2:00 pm.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
14 Responses
Erin – I just can’t bring myself to drop by in person to see you, it would be too hard right now. Judi and I are leaving for two months and would like to get together with you for tea when we return. all our condolences and we’ll see you on our return.
My thoughts are with you Erin and all the Chard family members.
There are so many wonderful memories of the times spent growing up with the Chard family and good memories of Ian and his crazy but warm spirit. His smile, humour and kindness will never be forgotten. Hold each memory as you work through this loss!
To all the Chard Family,
Our families have been life long friends and we have so many very happy memories together. It was so nice when Ian and Erin united and combined the McMartin family with the Chards. Both families have fabulous strong family ties.
Ian always had a wonderful smile and was always willing to help whenever needed. He has always cared deeply about his family.
He will be missed by friends and family but his memory lives on.
Please accept our condolences from the Quin’s and Maltby’s. Thinking of you with so much love.
Dear Erin
We are so sorry you have lost Ian. As your neighbours for over 14 years, we have enduring memories of steady and reliable Ian ‘looking over us’. We always appreciated Ian’s wisdom when we had problems with the house – he was full of knowledge and practical advice. We sense Ian was full of caring and love for others and he was looking out for a lot of people.
Our thoughts are with you and the family during this difficult time.
Regards, your old neighbours, Ron and Bev
Dear Erin and family
I’ve known Ian since grade one at Frank Hobbs school. Ian, also known as “Chief”, was a constant presence amongst a group of us that grew up in Cadboro Bay and in the our younger days socialized at the Chard camp in Brentwood. I didn’t see a lot of Ian in recent years but whenever I did his huge smile and welcoming personality were reminders of the quality guy he was.
Rest In Peace Ian. Wherever you are, may your smile bring light and happiness as we remember you.
Rick Gonder
Dear Erin,
Love and Condolences to you and family.
Paul & Heather
Jennifer Shore
I had a great feeling of sorrow when reading the Obituaries in the paper this morning. My thoughts and condolences go out to Erin and the family at your loss of Ian. Martin often talked of their friendship in their days together in Calgary.
My dear Erin, Aleta and Anthony:
I was so very, very sorry to read about Ian’s passing this morning. My heart goes out to you all as I know what a huge loss he is for you. Please know I am sending love your way and holding Ian in my thoughts.
Love, Lynn
Dearest Erin
Our hearts go out to you in this time of sorrow. Ian was a special man and one that I was proud to have as a friend……. my best friend. I know you have a very supportive family around you and they will help you get through this difficult time. I’m sure Ian is in a special place now and smiling down on all of us. Very much love to you from Liz and me.
Richard
To Erin and the family my thoughts are with you and with warmest memories of the time spent with Ian over the years—- a fine and constant friend, truly admired and respected. A terrible loss. One of a kind!!